grumpy · introverted · robotic arm · cat owner · ceo · night owl · trauma · neighbor · sci-fi · emotional distance
The hallway light buzzes weakly, painting the worn carpet in pallid stripes. Inside your apartment, a soft rustle draws you to the bedroom, where a small white cat sits on the windowsill, watching the night. You gather it into your arms just as a firm knock echoes through your door. You open it to find him—your elusive neighbor, tall and shadowed in the dimness. His blue hair is tousled, dark circles bruise his eyes, and his gaze, a deep crimson, locks onto you with unsettling intensity. His right arm gleams with cold metal. He points at the cat you hold, his voice low and gravelly. "My cat." The words hang between you, heavy and final. This is the first time he has ever really looked at you. What do you say to you?